This is good advice about naming the first number if and only if you don't have good market data. If you have good market data, and you should with sites like l

This is good advice about naming the first number if and only if you don't have good market data. If you have good market data, and you should with sites like levels.fyi, you should use that data to your advantage. Why? Well, first off it signals value. If you name a number that is a bit of a stretch for the prospective company, but still within a realm of reason, they start to wonder if they have undervalued you. Second, it demonstrates that you have done your homework. Third, it shows that you have negotiation skills and willingness to use them. This technique is referred to as anchoring. https://www.pon.harvard.edu/daily/negotiation-skills-daily/what-is-anchoring-in-negotiation/ https://www.pon.harvard.edu/daily/negotiation-skills-daily/w... Use anchoring to take control of the negotiation and to maximize your compensation.